HYBE Unveils New Girl Group Tuide with “Tune & Play”
K-pop powerhouse Hybe, the agency behind global sensation BTS, has officially unveiled its highly anticipated new girl group, Tuide, making their debut on Monday with the release of their first EP, “Tune & Play”. This marks a significant moment as Tuide is the first girl group presented by ABD, a fresh new label operating under the Hybe umbrella, and Hybe’s first girl group in two years following the U.S.-based Katseye.
During a captivating media showcase held in Seoul, group leader Seohee shared the insightful meaning behind their unique group name. Tuide is derived from the phrase “Tune the tide,” a powerful concept reflecting their ambitious goal to “harmonize the diverse flows of the world to create our own joyful flow.” This philosophy underpins their musical journey and identity.
Meet the Members: Diverse Talents and Familiar Connections
Tuide introduces a vibrant seven-member lineup: Seohee, Seoyeon, Elena, Jia, Saki, Seah, and Yi Hani. Fans are particularly excited about Seoyeon, who is the younger sister of Jihyo, a beloved member of the top-tier girl group TWICE, adding an intriguing familial connection to the K-pop landscape. The global appeal of Tuide is evident in its diverse membership, with the seven talented individuals born between 2006 and 2011, hailing from various cultural backgrounds including South Korea, the United States, Britain, and Japan. This international mix is set to bring a rich tapestry of perspectives and talents to their music and performances.
The “Soultronic” Sound: Tuide’s Unique Identity
Member Seoyeon elaborated on the group’s distinctive sound, introducing it as “Soultronic.” This innovative genre is described as a captivating fusion that marries the warm, emotive sensibility of soul music with the sophisticated, sleek sounds of electronic music. “It has a charm that makes you want to keep listening and spontaneously move to the rhythm,” Seoyeon explained, promising a fresh auditory experience for listeners.
When pressed on what truly distinguishes Tuide in the competitive K-pop landscape, the group collectively highlighted their groundbreaking “Soultronic” musical style. Jia further elaborated, stating, “Although the specific genres of the five tracks on our debut album differ, they all share a bright, energetic yet relaxed and laid-back vibe. This coexistence of vitality and leisure is what defines Tuide’s Soultronic style.”
A Deep Dive into Their Debut EP: “Tune & Play”
Tuide’s debut EP, “Tune & Play”, features five tracks: “ABD,” “Sun Kiss,” “Echo,” “Flip-flop Girl,” and “Grls.” The lead single, “Sun Kiss,” is championed by Jia as the track that most vibrantly encapsulates the team’s distinct color and showcases the individual charms of all seven members. “It is a song filled with the free and pleasant energy of being under the shining sunlight, fully captured through the voices of the seven of us,” she described. The agency further revealed that “Sun Kiss” carries a message of self-trust and expression, encouraging listeners to embrace their own rhythm and emotions rather than conforming to external standards.
Bringing this energetic theme to life is the song’s dynamic choreography. Seoyeon emphasized that the performance was meticulously prepared to project “lively energy.” She added, “We worked hard to ensure that our movements, resembling seven people playing freely under the sun, would naturally reach the audience.” The choreography’s reliance on groove-focused movements, designed to highlight each member’s individual personality, meant that the group dedicated intensive thought to every facial expression, gesture, and breath, ensuring a truly immersive performance.
Aspirations and the Road Ahead
Looking towards the future, the rookie group expressed immense hope and determination for their debut activities. “I think our first goal is for many people to remember and recognize the name Tuide,” Jia shared, articulating their immediate ambition. She continued, “We want to receive a lot of love and positive reviews to win a Rookie of the Year award,” setting a clear and ambitious target for their burgeoning career and hinting at the exciting journey ahead for Hybe’s newest global sensation.
